Band E (Ages 15-18)

• 517ETea Ceremonies

  Analyze tea ceremony as contemplative practice that integrates mindfulness of the five elements; evaluate how ritual tea service cultivates presence, gratitude, and community connection; and demonstrate competency by conducting tea ceremonies that exemplify Buddhist principles of mindfulness, generosity, and appreciation for interdependent conditions supporting daily nourishment.
• 521EAbhidharma: Sensory Awareness

  Identify the six sense faculties and twelve ayatanas and connect them to our experience of conditioned perception. Evaluate how habitual reactions to pleasant, unpleasant, and neutral sensations can limit our perceptions. Implement mindfulness practices utilizing awareness of sensory processes.
• 523EFive Wisdom Elements

  Implement practices that honor the five elements in daily life. Lead guided meditations that explore each element’s qualities and significance.
• 415EKarma and Habit

  Analyze the relationship between Buddhist teachings on karma and neuroscientific understanding of habit formation; evaluate how conscious repetition of wholesome thoughts, words, and actions creates positive neural pathways; and synthesize understanding by implementing deliberate habit-change practices that demonstrate the intersection of contemplative training and brain plasticity.
• 416ERefraining from Sexual Misconduct

  Analyze the Buddhist understanding of sexual misconduct within the context of consent, honesty, and non-harm; evaluate how the principles of respect and mindfulness apply to intimate relationships; and synthesize understanding by examining how this precept supports both personal integrity and healthy community relationships.
• 417ERefraining from stealing

  Analyze the concept of “taking what is not given” beyond simple theft to include deception, exploitation, and environmental harm; evaluate the karmic relationship between stealing and loss as described in Buddhist teachings; and synthesize understanding by implementing practices of generosity (dana) that counteract acquisitive tendencies.
• 418EAbstaining from Intoxicants

  Differentiate between the precept against intoxicants and the broader principle of mattanuta (knowing the right amount); analyze how mindful consumption supports clarity of mind and ethical behavior; and evaluate personal consumption patterns across various domains (substances, media, material goods) using Buddhist principles of moderation and awareness.
• 419EThe Paramitas

  Analyze the six paramitas by comparing their unique qualities and purposes; evaluate how each perfection addresses specific obstacles to awakening; and demonstrate their interconnected nature by practicing one paramita while observing how it naturally supports the development of others in daily life.
• 420EThe Paramita of Virya/Diligence

  Analyze the distinction between ordinary effort and joyful diligence (virya) in Buddhist practice; evaluate personal experiences of learning dharma through the three-step process of listening, contemplation, and meditation; and synthesize understanding by implementing consistent practice that demonstrates “cheerful commitment” to inner development.